Launch and seminar: Arctic Test Arena
Join us for a unique two-day programme in Narvik, 4–5 November, celebrating the official launch of the Arctic Test Arena – a Norwegian–Swedish initiative for testing and developing railway technology in extreme Arctic conditions.
Over two days you will experience a technical train journey along Ofotbanen and Malmbanan, gain first-hand insights into test activities, and take part in a dedicated seminar and laboratory visit at UiT – The Arctic University of Norway. This is a unique opportunity to share knowledge, reflect on lessons learned, and strengthen European collaboration for the railway of the future.
Official European Launch
Why You Should Attend?
- Join the Arctic Innovation Train Journey along Ofotbanen and Malmbanan with live demonstrations.
- Take part in an exclusive seminar and lab visit at UiT The Arctic University of Norway.
- Share insights on innovation, testing, and collaboration across Europe’s rail sector.
Cross-border collaboration is essential to address climate challenges, digitalisation, and resilient infrastructure
Programme 4–5 November
Day 1 – 4 November: Launch & Innovation Train Journey
08.45: Official Launch Ceremony, Narvik Station
Welcome remarks by Norwegian Railway Directorate, Bane NOR, Trafikverket, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, SINTEF, JVTC, Luleå University of Technology, and Europe’s Rail JU.
09.00: Departure Arctic Innovation Train Journey
Board the Arctic Innovation Train for a one-of-a-kind journey!
Live demonstrations and stops include:
- Monitoring of concrete bridges and transition zones (Europe’s Rail JU – IAM4RAIL)
- Technologies for winter operations and cold climate environment
- Solutions for heavy haul operations in harsh conditions
- Digitalisation projects for railway assets, operations, and maintenance
A light lunch will be served on board or at a scenic stop, depending on weather conditions.
14.00–14.30: Return to Narvik Station
Final reflections and a look toward future test initiatives and cross-border collaboration.
18.30: Evening Gathering and Dinner
All guests are warmly invited to join us for a shared dinner to continue conversations and strengthen connections (self-paid).
Day 2 – 5 November: Seminar & Lab Visit at UiT
09.00–13.00: UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Narvik
A dedicated seminar and lab visit at UiT to continue the discussions from the launch event.
Agenda highlights:
- The derailment on Malmbanan and Ofotbanen (December 2023): What happened, lessons learned, and the importance of testing to avoid similar incidents in the future.
- Ongoing and potential test activities on the Arctic Test Arena.
- Models for collaboration: exploring how industry, academia, and authorities can work together to maximise the value of the test arena.
The seminar concludes with a guided tour of the railway laboratories at UiT, followed by a joint lunch.
The event is hosted by
Contact the project manager
